Miami classic harness versus the SS2: comfort?

[Monkeyleg]

Not long ago I bought a Miami classic shoulder rig, and found that the straps at the shoulder points weren't exactly comfortable. So...I ordered an SS2 harness for it. Wider straps at the shoulders should be more comfortable, right?

Well, the SS2's widest points are just above my rib cage when the holster and ammo pouch are properly adjusted. I figured the widest areas would be atop my shoulders. And it's more uncomfortable than the narrower Miami Classic harness.

This is what Galco has to say:"The Miami Classic is the most popular and some feel it is easier to conceal, as well as cooler with the narrow straps. Others may tell you that the SSII wider harness is more comfortable, as it spreads the weight over a wider area. Small framed people, or those with larger builds, tend to do better with the Miami Classic."

"Small framed people or those with larger builds?" Who's left--size 40 mannequins?

One thing I noticed immediately about the SS2 harness is that the leather is thinner. Thus, it may not be spreading the load as evenly as the even narrower Classic harness.

I'm skinny, and this rig is uncomfortable. Any suggestions on adjustments, or just send it back?

Thanks for any replies.

 

[Hkmp5sd]

If you can overlook what these are actually made for, they may help......

I know a cop that uses them on his shoulder rig and he claims they work.

SHOULDER EASE PADS

 

[stans]

I have tried various shoulder rigs and keep going back to wearing my sidearm on my belt.

 

[COHIBA]

before you spend $100+ try a fobus shoulder rig. this is coming from someone who makes a living selling $100 + shoulder rigs.
just try it.

 

[Monkeyleg]

Thanks for the replies. HKmp5sd, those pads look like they would work.

It's a bit late now to try the Fobus SH rig, since I've got $$ into this Galco. I like the holster and the rig, but just need a little more comfort on the top of my shoulders (especially the strong side).

For years I've been using a Rosen IWB holster, and that is hands-down my favorite. But I've been having back problems the last three months, and any waist holster digs into areas where I'm already experiencing pain. The other reason for the shoulder rig is that my wife and I will be driving to New Orleans soon, and I'm sure you know an IWB while driving is not at all comfortable for long stretches.

Now, I wonder if Galco will take this back?

 

[mpthole]

Wider straps at the shoulders should be more comfortable, right?
Well, the SS2's widest points are just above my rib cage when the holster and ammo pouch are properly adjusted. I figured the widest areas would be atop my shoulders.

Dick, just so I understand you... the wide part of the should harness is riding on top of your shoulders, right? And the adjustable portion of the harness goes from the middle of you back (or where ever the four-point connector lies) to the bottom of the holster/mag carrier, somewhere around your kidney area?

That is how mine rides anyway and find it very comfortable. I wish I had a digital camera to show some pics... I carry a USP .45 Compact and a dual-mag pouch on the opposite side. Very comfortable for long drives.

 

[Monkeyleg]

mpthole, the four-point connector is in the proper spot on my back, according to Galco's instructions: centered over the spine and just about right at the top of my shoulder blades, just as in the attached photo.

But, positioned this way, the widest parts of the straps are in the front, just above my shirt pocket. It may be that because I'm skinny (no chest, no back or shoulder muscles to speak of--heck, no muscles at all!) that the straps wind up in that position.

 

[mpthole]

Since it sounds like you've got it on correctly and its still not comfortable, I'd try to return it. I'll admit though it took me some getting used to when I first started carrying in this method. Once I got used to it, it became very comfortable for me.

If Galco doesn't take it back, I'll bet you could sell it for almost what you paid for it. What gun is it set up for by the way?

 

[Monkeyleg]

Thanks for the reply, mpthole. The setup is the same as what I've been doing with the regular Miami Classic harness. I just ordered the SS2 harness because I thought it would be more comfortable.

I would think Galco would take it back. If not, I'll put the harness in the "for sale" forum here on THR.

The holster itself is for a 1911. The draw from it isn't quite as fast as from an IWB, but it's not slow either. And, obviously, it's easier to get to while driving than from an IWB, as I'm sure you've learned.

 

[Monkeyleg]

Just to bring this thread to an end: Galco said "no problem" to sending the SS2 harness back; I've been wearing the original Miami Classic rig all day and it feels much better than the SS2; and I've got a phone call in to that bra strap outfit that HKmp5sd recommended.

The only problem is I don't know if I'm an "A" cup or "B" cup.